Suggestions on CDP


Hi All,

I was wondering if you could give me some suggestions. I have been upgrading my main system so far it consists of:

Compact Disk Player: Arcam 7se
Preamp Rouge 99
Amp Odyssey Stratos
Interconnects: Nordost Blue Heaven
Speaker Wires MIT T2
Speakers: Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk.II

I am interested in upgrading my CDP. Of course I plan to audition the other Arcam players (Arcam 9, FMJ CD23), but I was wondering if there were other brands I should try (i.e. naim 3.5 or others). My budget is about $1500-2000. I might go used. The reason I ask is because the arcam dealer is local but I would have a long trip to audition other brands.

I listen to mostly jazz, but some rock and pop as well. Any recommendations?
xmore

Showing 1 response by psjulian

I was reading the Stereophile review on the Mark Lev. #383 just to see their view of the amp. because I have that amp. So I read the tech report on the Accuphase 75v and the Arcam FMJ-CD23 in the same issue. The Arcam bettered the 75v in some areas and was close in all the other areas. So close that the reviewer bought the review player. This started me to think,because I was in the up-grade mode. So I called the Levinson dealer in my area to get his thoughts on the Arcam. All he had to say was that in the showroom they have the FMJ playing through the #383. So I made an appointment and the hour drive to listen to the combo. I was floored. How can they give so much quality both build and sound for so little when compaired to the so called big boys. I to was thinking used, but the dealer let me take the floor model home to try in my system. It was on the showroom floor for only 2 weeks and he gave a good deal as a demo unit. It's still in my system and sounds better than ever. Short break-in period. My advice is to go with the new Arcam, not only because it sounds great with the ring-dac and all, but because it comes with a waranty, most used gear does not. Plus Arcam sent me info on their complete up-grade program,bonus!! Just send in the warranty cards and they keep you informed on the future. Good policy. Peace and good listening. Salty Dog.